The Man of a Thousand Voices and One Big Heart
Philip Edward Hartmann was born on September 24, 1948, in Brantford, Ontario, the fourth of eight children. His family later moved to the US, settling in California. From a young age, Phil stood out for his humor and creativity. “He was the glue of the family,” his brother John said. “He made everyone laugh — even when things were tough.”
The Art Student Who Made People Smile
Before comedy, Phil was an artist. He studied graphic design at California State University and ran his own business designing album covers for rock bands. His work even appeared on classic albums like Poco’s Legend and America’s History. “He had this sense of style and calm,” said a friend. “But you always felt like he had something more to give.”
Michael Ochs Archives, Getty Images
Finding His Tribe at The Groundlings
In the mid-1970s, Phil wandered into a Los Angeles improv troupe called The Groundlings — and it changed everything. “He just lit up the stage,” said fellow performer Laraine Newman. “He was that guy who made you feel safe up there, like he’d never let you fail.” His talent for characters, impressions, and timing made him a standout.
The Birth of a Comedy Chameleon
At The Groundlings, Phil developed a reputation as the ultimate utility player — the man who could play anyone. He created original characters and perfected impersonations, from Ronald Reagan to Charlton Heston. “He was fearless,” said Paul Reubens. “He could disappear into any role.”
Meeting Pee-wee Herman
Phil’s collaboration with Paul Reubens changed both their lives. The two met at The Groundlings and co-wrote Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. Phil also played Captain Carl on Pee-wee’s Playhouse. “Phil brought this weird, lovable energy,” Reubens said. “He made every scene better.”
CBS, Pee-wee’s Playhouse (1986)
A Late Bloomer’s Big Break
Unlike many of his peers, Phil didn’t hit mainstream success until his late 30s. In 1986, at age 38, he joined Saturday Night Live. “I finally felt like I was where I belonged,” he said. His calm professionalism earned him the nickname “The Glue” from castmates — because he held every sketch together.
NBC / Broadway Video, Saturday Night Live (1986)
Master of Impressions
Phil’s range on SNL was unmatched. He nailed everyone from Bill Clinton to Frank Sinatra, Ted Koppel, and even Barbara Bush. “Phil could find the rhythm in anyone’s speech,” said Dana Carvey. “He didn’t just imitate people — he became them.”
NBC, Saturday Night Live (1993)
Bill Clinton’s Big Mac Moment
One of Phil’s most famous sketches featured him as President Bill Clinton sneaking bites of strangers’ fast food. The real Clinton reportedly found it hilarious. “That’s how good Phil was,” said producer Lorne Michaels. “He made presidents laugh at themselves.”
NBC, Saturday Night Live (1992)
The Everyman of Comedy
While other comedians chased attention, Phil found joy in the ensemble. “He wasn’t the loudest or the flashiest,” said Jan Hooks. “He was steady — like a lighthouse. You always knew you could trust him.” His kindness extended offscreen too; he’d often stay late to help newer cast members rehearse.
NBC, Saturday Night Live (1993)
Life After SNL
After leaving Saturday Night Live in 1994, Phil joined the sitcom NewsRadio as Bill McNeal — the pompous, hilarious radio anchor. Critics praised his balance of charm and absurdity. “He could turn a normal line into comedy gold,” said co-star Dave Foley.
NBC, Communications, NewsRadio (1995-1999)
The Voice of a Generation
Around the same time, Phil began voice acting for The Simpsons. His deep, theatrical tone brought life to some of the show’s most iconic characters — the smarmy Troy McClure (“You may remember me from such films as...”) and the unflappable Lionel Hutz. His delivery made them instant classics.
20th Television Animation, The Simpsons (1989–Present)
A Perfectionist at Heart
Despite his easygoing nature, Phil took his craft seriously. “He rehearsed every voice, every gesture,” said NewsRadio creator Paul Simms. “He had this quiet discipline — he made it look effortless because he worked harder than anyone else.”
The Man Behind the Laughter
Offstage, Phil was gentle, introspective, and private. Friends said he loved sailing, sketching, and spending time with his kids, Sean and Birgen. “He didn’t need the spotlight all the time,” said his brother John. “He just wanted to make people laugh and then go home.”
A Loyal Friend
Even as fame grew, Phil stayed humble. He never turned down a fan photo and was known for sending thank-you notes after interviews. “He had no ego,” said Joe Rogan, who worked with him on NewsRadio. “He was one of the nicest people I ever met in this business.”
The Calm in the Storm
Behind the scenes, Phil’s marriage to Brynn Hartman was turbulent, marked by jealousy and personal struggles. Still, he tried to keep peace at home. “Phil always wanted harmony,” said a friend. “He believed in forgiveness, in keeping the family together.”
A Tragic Loss
On May 28, 1998, the world was stunned when Phil Hartman was killed in a domestic tragedy at his California home. He was 49. Friends, family, and fans mourned deeply. “He was the best of us,” said Jon Lovitz. “He made the world funnier and kinder — and we lost him way too soon.”
Hollywood Says Goodbye
At his memorial, SNL alumni, Simpsons cast members, and lifelong friends gathered to celebrate his life. “He never knew how good he was,” Lorne Michaels said in his eulogy. “And maybe that’s why he was so good.”
Remembering the Magic
Even decades later, Phil’s sketches remain timeless. Whether it’s Clinton with a cheeseburger or Troy McClure introducing himself, his voice still brings laughter. “He made characters immortal,” said Mike Reiss of The Simpsons. “Nobody else could do what Phil did.”
NBC, Saturday Night Live (1992)
The Simpsons Legacy
In total, Phil voiced more than 20 characters on The Simpsons. When he died, the show retired his characters — a rare honor. “We couldn’t replace him,” said producer Al Jean. “There was only one Phil Hartman.” His final episodes aired posthumously, and fans still quote his lines with love.
20th Television Animation, The Simpsons (1989–Present)
The Man Who Could Be Anyone — and Everyone Loved Him
Phil Hartman was more than a comedian — he was a craftsman, a friend, and a rare soul who brought light wherever he went. “He could make you laugh just by walking into the room,” said David Foley. “But he also made you feel safe.” And through his countless voices, Phil Hartman’s warmth, wit, and humanity live on forever.
You May Also Like:
